OLEAN — More than $1 billion in extra Medicare reimbursements are expected across Upstate New York, and tens of millions are expected across the region.
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., told reporters during a conference call Wednesday morning that as of Tuesday a new Medicare reimbursement formula had been approved by federal regulators and would result in millions more in funding for area hospitals.
Topping out the Western New York region for an individual hospital is Olean General Hospital, Schumer’s office reported, with $20.45 million in additional reimbursements expected in the 2023-24 federal fiscal year. However, a spokesperson for OGH reported that a corrected figure is closer to $10 million to $12 million a year.
Also receiving additional funds are Jones Memorial Hospital of Wellsville, with an expected $5.05 million more in reimbursements; and Springville’s Bertrand Chaffee Hospital, with an estimated $1.15 million in additional reimbursements.
“This is going to mean more jobs for Upstate New York and more health care — better health care — in Upstate New York,” Schumer said. “Now, we’re getting treated fairly.”
Schumer said that, for example, Albany received 86 cents on the dollar for reimbursement, while many states saw more than a dollar in reimbursement for every dollar spent.
“Everywhere in Upstate New York will see an increase,” Schumer said. “It’s miraculous — it’s just what the doctor ordered.